Full-Day Mindo Cloud Forest Tour Birdwatching Waterfalls and Hike

Quito , Ecuador

Full-Day Mindo Cloud Forest Tour Birdwatching Waterfalls and Hike

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(68 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy with us a different experience on your day trip to Mindo Cloud Forest. Last remnants of the Choco Darien Region. Find different and unique Nature places. You can be part of different activities like Hiking in the Cloud Forest, Butterflies farm, Humingbird's Photography, Many species of birds, Waterfalls in the Nambillo River. a lot of fun and Adventure with some extra activities in the Mindo River. Tubbing, Zip line cables tour in the Forest. This is a tailor-made experience. Please just let us know your Preferences.

Available options

Full-Day Mindo Cloud Forest Tour Birdwatching Waterfalls and Hike

Pickup included

What's included

National tour Guides

Air-conditioned vehicle

admission fees

Detailed itinerary

Our Mindo Cloud Forest Day Tour begins at 8:00 AM in Quito as we journey northwest through the Pichincha Province, experiencing a variety of climatic zones along the way.
Our first stop will be at the Pululahua Volcano, where we will enjoy a panoramic view of the majestic crater. Here, we can observe a diverse range of native plants, including bromeliads, orchids, and several medicinal species.

Would you like to feed hummingbirds from your hands? This is the perfect place for that! You'll also encounter toucans and tanagers at the feeders. Agoutis, squirrels, orchids, and bromeliads are all part of this amazing experience. Be sure to bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom.

Stop 3

After birding in San Tadeo, we will arrive at Mindo town and immediately we will go to the butterfly farm where we will learn about the butterflies anatomy, reproduction, in their natural state. Hummingbird feeders are the best option in a small trail if you are interested in photography.

Stop 4

We continue our journey to the cloud forest where we will be part of some trails to the waterfalls route. A short Drive from Mariposas de Mindo to Cascadas Nambillo. Once there, we will take a cable car to pass to other section of the Cloud forest and take a hike to the Nambillo waterfall or ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route). It will take us around 1.30 hours. We are ready for lunch in a great, quite, and beautiful place.

Finally and after Lunch, we have a relaxing activity. it is learning, Tasting, the best artesanal chocolate you never mind. Yumbos is the best spot in Mindo for It. We are ready to go back to Quito

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuites are welcome

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

8 reviews

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4★

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Tripadvisor 5.0

60 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park

50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest

80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs

65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.